As week one in the NFL comes to a close, fans and analysts alike reflect on the biggest losers from week one, on what was a start to the season that nobody really saw coming. From great teams losing to not-so-great teams, and key players going down with big injuries, week 1 was definitely a tough week for some. Let’s dive into who the standout candidates for the biggest losers in week one were, and how they can improve going forward.
1. Joe Burrow in Week 1
What in the world happened? Burrow gets the largest contract in NFL history, and this is the performance he opens up with? Joe Burrow had 82 yards passing and no touchdowns in Sunday’s game against AFC North rival the Cleveland Browns. He was so bad that they actually took him out at the end of the game, because the Bengals’ head coach, Zac Taylor, knew his team did not have any chance of coming back, and did not want his prized possession to get hurt in an unnecessary situation.
Burrow looked super out of rhythm the entire game, missing receivers left and right only going 14-31 on pass attempts. He will need to take a hard look in the mirror, and get in sync with his pass catchers ASAP! The offensive line also looked horrible, allowing three sacks and 10 quarterback hits on their guy under center. As for the defense, they were not completely terrible, but they do need to work on a better strategy when it comes to stopping the run and keeping the Bengals competitive in games, especially if the offense continues to underperform.
2. New York Giants in Week 1
In close games, sometimes the team that fell short can still reflect on the things that they did well. However, this game was anything but close; what the heck was that? The Giants played their NFC East rival, the Dallas Cowboys, on Sunday Night Football, which was supposed to be a closely contested game, and absolutely s**t the bed, losing 40-0. ZERO, like they could not even get a field goal.
Daniel Jones was atrocious, throwing for only 104 yards, no touchdowns, two interceptions, and completing only 15-28 pass attempts. He had no impact on the game whatsoever, at least in a positive light, that is. Also, running back Saquon Barkley was a non-factor, only rushing for 51 yards on 12 carries. The defense was obviously terrible, allowing the Cowboys to escape with no sacks and no turnovers. New York needs to change everything because that performance is not acceptable in the NFL.
3. New York Jets in Week 1
Even though the Jets won their Monday Night Football match against the Buffalo Bills, they suffered arguably an even bigger loss than any game, their star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers, on the fourth play from scrimmage for the Jets’ offense, was sacked and fell kind of awkwardly. It is now confirmed as of Tuesday, September 12, that the storied quarterback has suffered a torn Achilles, and will now miss the entire 2023 season. The NFL world is still in shock, as they never got to see what Aaron Rodgers would do for the Jets. Rumors are now going around the league that he may even retire, which would absolutely be the nail in the coffin for Jets fans.
As far as performance goes for the Jets, the defense was outstanding, creating four turnovers against the high-powered Bills’ offense. The New York offense, on the other hand, needs some work. The rushing attack looks great with Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook in the backfield. However, the big question marks are on the passing game, and the offensive line. Will the Jets roll with Zach Wilson for the rest of the season, or will they go out and get another veteran presence?
